Victim Rights Office

Misdemeanor Crimes

• Domestic Violence            

• Assault

• Aggravated Menacing

• Menacing

• Stalking

• Intimidation

• Negligent Homicide

• Vehicular Homicide

• Sexual Imposition

• Criminal Damaging

• Criminal Trespassing

Notification:

• You have the right to be notified of the Defendant's name, the charge, the case number, and arrest.

• You have a right to talk to the prosecutor about plea offers.

• You have a right to know the date, time, and place of pretrial hearing and trials.

• You have a right to know the disposition of the case, including dismissals, convictions, acquittals, sentencing, and appeals.

• You have a right to know about the Defendant's eligibility for release.

Attendance:

• You have a right to attend any hearing where the Defendant is present, unless the Judge determines that your presence will compromise the Defendant's right to a fair trial.  

Advocate:

• A Victim's Rights Advocate will be present in court to offer support, explain the process, and provide information about subsequent hearings or trial.

Confidentiality:

• You have a right to have your identity and personal information suppressed and excluded from files if you fear threats of violence.

Employment:

• You cannot be punished by your employer for missing work to attend hearings or to prepare for trial, when the prosecutor requests your presence or when you are subpoenaed.

Separate Waiting:

• This office may be able to provide a separate waiting area from the defendant when practical.

Recovery:

• Police must return your property unless there is a dispute over whether you own it, it is legal, or it is necessary for use as evidence.

• The Judge may order restitution for damage done to your property by the Defendant.

• The State of Ohio has a program to assist you in paying medical bills, lost wages, counseling, and other costs as specified under law.

• Check with our office to find out if you qualify and to obtain the necessary applications.

Protection:

• You may make a motion for a Temporary Protection Order at arraignment, which will be in effect until rescinded by the court.

• The Judge may issue a no-contact order to keep the Defendant from contacting you or your family.

• You may request a Civil Protection Order through Domestic Relations.